Disturbing Statement in Reuters Mittal Steel Story

Disturbing Statement in Reuters Mittal Steel Story

"Liberia sees steel deal with Mittal soon", Thu Oct 12, 2006 10:34am
ET, By Tom Bergin

This statement is telling:

"Boakai (Vice President Joseph Boakai) also suggested that Mittal may be prepared to move on one of the key sticking points -- control of the country's main port and railway line, which the deal awarded to Mittal."

One point! Is that all the people of Liberia can expect!

As we have said in early August, we hope all goes well with the renegotiation, paving the way for mining to start by late 2007. But not just any contract will do.

With all due respect Mr. Vice President, please to listen to the people. Certainly, Nimba is interested in the renegotiated contract meeting international standards. Mr. Boakai, ownership of the railway and the port is not enough.

From what has been revealed of the contract. All modern mining practices have been thrown out. Even issues of Liberia's sovereignty has been threatened.

WE NEED A MAJOR RE-WRITE OF THE CONTRACT

Some principles we must insist on are that Mittal Steel and their sub-contractors conduct their activities in a manner that recognizes the needs of society and the needs for economic prosperity, national security and a healthy environment.

Mittal Steel must commit on paper to integrating social, environmental, and economic principles in their mining operations from exploration through development, operation, reclamation, closure and post closure activities, and in operations associated with preparing products for further use.

Take a look at the Rio Tinto contract with Guinea. It is a good example of what we may be missing.

There should be real and tangible targets for development. We should never go down the road of growth without development. It is never too late for public debate. Nimba County should be the model for the future development of Liberia as a whole, not example of the pathetic concessions of the past.

EarlyBird Foundation
http://www.liberianature.blogspot.com/